Hosni Mubarak

President: Muhammad Hosni Mubarak

A former commander of the air force and vice-president, Mubarak was elected president of Egypt and became supreme commander of the armed forces after the assassination of Sadat in October 1981.

He was the target of an assassination attempt in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, in June 1995. He was reelected for his fourth term in office in October 1999.

Country Profile: Egypt

While best known for its pyramids and ancient civilizations, Egypt has played a central role in the political situation within the region in modern times.

Its three wars with Israel in 1948, 1967 and 1973, then its eventual peace with its adversary in 1979, have seen Egypt move from being a warring nation to become a key representative in the peace process.

EGYPT FACTS
Population: 71.9 million (UN, 2003)
Capital: Cairo
Major language: Arabic
Major religion: Islam
Life expectancy: 67 years (men), 71 years (women) (UN)
Monetary unit: 1 Egyptian Pound = 100 piastres
Main exports: Petroleum, petroleum products and cotton
Annual average income: US $1,530 (World Bank, 2001)
Internet domain: .eg
International dialling code: +20